#Netherlands #Amsterdam #GABV #Values-Based Banking #Academic Network

GABV Launches the GABV Academic Network

On March 19, 2025, during the Values-Based Finance Conference at the Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, the Global Alliance for Banking on Values (GABV) announced the formation of the GABV Academic Network. This initiative brings together a coalition of scholars and representatives from prominent institutions including UPF Barcelona School of Management and the University of Hamburg, collectively aiming to explore the intersection of values-based banking and academia.

The GABV, recognized for its commitment to progressive and inclusive banking, seeks to create a platform that integrates sustainable finance concepts into academic discourse and practice. By fostering research linked to values-driven banking, the network aspires to educate future bankers and researchers on the importance of embedding societal and environmental goals into financial operations.

Why Values-Based Banking?

Values-based banking prioritizes people and the planet over mere profit, making it an appealing model in today's financial landscape. This banking approach promotes ethical practices that lead to sustainable and equitable outcomes. The GABV Academic Network will focus on emphasizing the broader benefits of this model to society and the economy.

Tytti Kaasinen, Head of Impact and Research at the GABV, stated that this initiative represents a pivotal development in enhancing the understanding of values-based banking. The network aims to connect researchers and practitioners, thereby catalyzing innovation and a shift towards a more sustainable financial future. "We want to ensure that this banking model is recognized not just as an alternative, but as a leading standard for achieving a fairer financial system," Kaasinen noted during the launch.

A Global Platform for Inclusion

The GABV Academic Network is open to doctoral candidates, postdoctoral scholars, and faculty members who are dedicated to research in ethical banking, sustainable finance, and related areas. The network will provide members with numerous opportunities, such as:

• - Access to GABV Data: Members can access aggregated Scorecard data, which evaluates performance based on the six Principles of Values-Based Banking.
• - Collaborative Opportunities: Scholars can engage in joint research projects with leading experts in the field.
• - Real-World Impact: Direct collaborations with financial practitioners and policy-makers will enhance the relevance of their research.
• - Funding Access: Opportunities for research consortia and grants will be available for members.

Strengthening the Case for Values-Based Finance

The GABV is also focused on providing substantial research and case studies to further solidify the business case for values-based banking. Their collaboration with academic institutions has yielded influential reports and studies that illustrate effective practices and reveal insights into sustainable finance. Notable research includes:

• - Finance for War, Finance for Peace (2024): This study examines the financial industry's involvement with weapons trade and contrasts it with the exclusionary practices of values-based banks.
• - Best Practices for Sustainable Market Transformation (2023): In partnership with Nyenrode Business University, this report outlines core features differentiating regular banks from values-based banks and details strategies to improve financial sustainability.
• - Perspectives on Responsible Banking in Spain (2023): Conducted by UPF Barcelona School of Management, this analysis assesses the implementation of responsible banking principles among Spanish banks.

The Steering Committee

The network's endeavors are guided by a Steering Committee composed of distinguished academics:

• - Dr. Marcos Eguiguren Huerta from UPF Barcelona School of Management, specializing in sustainable finance.
• - Dr. Brigitte Bernard-Rau from the University of Hamburg, an expert in ESG performance.
• - Dr. Frank Jan de Graaf from Amsterdam University of Applied Sciences, a professor of corporate governance and leadership.

Interested academics are welcomed to learn more about the GABV Academic Network and join this ambitious initiative. The network not only strives to enrich the academic landscape but also aims to make values-based banking a principle-driven norm in the global finance ecosystem.

About GABV

The Global Alliance for Banking on Values is a movement of independent banks and credit unions committed to placing finance in the service of people and the planet. Established in 2009, the GABV consists of 70 institutions across over 45 countries, serving more than 50 million clients and managing collective assets worth over USD 265 billion. For more information, visit their website.